Apprentice jockey Ngakau Hailey has been killed in a dirtbike accident in Hamilton, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has confirmed.
Hailey, 18, had ridden 46 winners in his two years in the saddle, but tragedy struck on Wednesday when he was involved in the fatal incident.
“This is an incredibly sad time for New Zealand racing. Ngakau had a bright future ahead of him, and his passing is a heartbreaking loss,” NZTR’s head of licensing and registrations Matthew Williamson said.
“On behalf of everyone at NZTR and across the wider industry, we extend our deepest condolences to Ngakau’s family, friends, and the many people who knew and rode alongside him. We will ensure support is available to those who need it.”
Support is being offered to fellow riders and other industry participants through NZTR’s OnTrack support services.
Hailey had been booked to ride the Team Rogerson-trained Gone Fission at Cambridge on Thursday.
